Animal Justice Party reveals candidate

THE Animal Justice Party has endorsed a Kyneton animal advocate as a candidate for a Northern Victoria upper house seat.

Georgie Purcell will contest for a spot on the Victorian Legislative Council at November’s state election.

She said she decided to run for parliament working for Western Victoria region member Andy Meddick during the current term.

“After four years working in the Victorian Parliament, I’ve seen the change we can make by having one representative for animals,” she said.

“With even more, the Animal Justice Party will be a stronger political force for animals, people and the planet.

“I will passionately advocate to ban duck shooting and jumps racing, support our animal rescuers and wildlife shelters, and build important infrastructure, such as regional animal shelters.

“Despite so many political decisions impacting young people and women, we are still under-represented in political systems. I want young women like myself to be able to see themselves in politics.”

Ms Purcell is an animal rescuer, a former union official, an admitted lawyer and a graduate of Melbourne University’s pathways to politics program for women.

She lives on a farm with over 30 rescue animals and said her platform also includes advocating for job security and improving access to abortion.

“Millennials like myself are often given a rough go, but we are actually more politically engaged than ever,” she said.

“We are passionate about fighting the climate emergency, housing affordability, job security, ending animal cruelty, First Nations justice and equality for women and LGBTQIA+ communities. We just aren’t truly represented in the halls of power.”

“More and more Victorian voters are losing faith in the major parties and are seeking an alternative. When elected, I will work pragmatically with the government to improve the lives of animals and people in our region.”

The Northern Victoria includes the lower house seats of Bendigo West, Bendigo East and Macedon.